Monday, February 18, 2013

Government Meeting 1/3: State of the City address

Huntington Mayor Steve Williams delivered his first State of City address  Friday at city hall.

Williams laid out his plan for improving Huntington and discussed what the new budget would cover.

This year's budget is a $1 million increase from last year's, making it $43 million, but will not include extra taxing or fees for residents.

The budget will help with Williams' main goal of making Huntington a better place in all aspects.

Some of Williams' plans include beautification of Huntington, adding art and gardens in various places, adding more business and revenue opportunities, and increasing tourism to the area.

Williams also appointed new people and organizations within the city. Two new organizations are the Mayor's Council for the Arts and an office of Film, Theater and Broadcasting. New positions in each department amounted to a total of 11.

Although Williams strayed from his prepared speech, he was able to present his plans for the city efficiently and with personality.

The mayor also recognized the city's employees for the work they do for the city. Organizations that received a special mention included the fire department and the Huntington Police Department.

With 46 percent of the Huntington community being renters, Williams said he will meet with landlords in the city to make sure all rental properties are safe for renters.

He also stressed the significance of his new beautification plan. Within this plan, the city will be cracking down on shabby or junky residents in Huntington. Williams said that residents must take responsibility of their homes.

"Indoor furniture doesn't belong outside, junk cars don't belong in the front yard," Williams said.

With Huntington being one of the most unfit and obese cities in the country, Williams said that it is important to focus on physical fitness in the city.

He will be taking an active role in this by having "Mayor's Walks," which will encourage residents to take action in becoming more healthy.

Williams said this, along with his other plans, can help Huntington go from the bottom to the top.






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